Jordan Morris

Communications director | U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks | Class of 2012

“To many, the Illini Union, which overlooks the beautiful, bustling Quad, is but a relic. To others and myself, it has been and still is a headquarters for student activism and engagement.

"At the Union, students register organizations, meet to discuss topics of the day, and most importantly, cast their ballots. In the Pine Lounge of the Union, Illinois student senators — as I once was — meet every Wednesday in open assembly to debate matters big and small before grabbing a beer at Murphy’s Pub.

"The Illini Union has enjoyed — or perhaps endured — three generations of my family. During his years as an undergraduate student, my grandpa bowled in the Union. His son, my uncle, protested the Vietnam War there. His daughter, my mom—a proud graduate who has been a UIUC professor for four decades — has celebrated the graduations of thousands of her students and each of her three children at the Union.

"With a rich history as a center of student activism and engagement, the Illini Union continues to be one part of the University of Illinois’ allure. Others include the University’s rigorous curricula, the beautiful diversity of its students, occasionally competitive sports teams, and of course, the Blue Guys at Kam’s.”